The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic death of top Japanese boxer Shigetoshi Kotari, who has passed away at the young age of 28. His death came just six days after he stepped out of the ring following a championship title fight.
Kotari lost consciousness after his bout with Yamato Hata on August 2nd. As reported by The Sun, he was rushed to a hospital where he underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) confirmed his passing in a heartbreaking statement: “Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.”
The statement spares no praise for Kotari: “A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community.”
In search of safer boxing
The fateful fight saw Kotari challenge Hata for the OPBF super featherweight title. The contest ended in a split draw, bringing Kotari’s career record to 8-2-2. The tragedy has prompted immediate calls for greater safety in the sport.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman released a statement, saying, “Deeply sorry for this loss, a ring accident which makes all of us go back to continue research to find ways to make boxing safer and implement prevention programs. Our deepest sympathy and condolences for his family and the boxing community in Japan.”
In a direct response to the fatal injuries suffered by Kotari, the Japan Boxing Commission announced a significant rule change. Effective immediately, all future OPBF title fights will be shortened from 12 rounds to 10 in an effort to better protect fighters.
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